How do you know if you are being quoted a fair and reasonable cost for tile installation. Is there a general formula? I roughly have a 500 sq. foot area that needs to be tiled in a remodel. The space is clear and open, on concrete, so I don't think there will be a lot of strange or unusual cuts. I live in N.M. also

RippySkippy

07-17-2009 11:36 AM

If you feel the price is fair...then it is. The only equation is between you and the contractor for said job...either you agree (accept the quote) or disagree (reject the quote).

The best way to help you sort that out; since this site is not a place that commonly prices goods/services due to regional/job differences, is to get comparable quotes from multiple contractors...just make sure the scope of the project is comparable . If you don't like the first 2 or 3 quotes, find a couple more. You will soon discover similarities and identify differences which will help you with the decision making process. BTW -- request references from all contractors submitting a bid, and follow-up with them before signing any contractual agreement.

Good luck...

Ron6519

07-17-2009 05:55 PM

If you call 3 -4 contractors and get estimates, you will get a good idea as to price. Usually larger companies will be higher in price then smaller companies.
Ron

diy-er

07-18-2009 08:49 PM

Hey there TJ. Unless you do get other quotes. There is no way knowing that you have been given a fair price. The best thing to do is get 3 quotes and compare. Also ask them if they charge by the hour and how long it will take to do the job. Some charge by the area (size) they are working with.

Not sure if you can do this were you live. But where I am. I can usually make a phone call and get estimates of rate. Have your room size ready measured up because they will want that info.

Then with the quote have now. Do some maths. If quoted by area (quote divided by area.) this will give you a price per m2. If quoted by hourly rate(quote divided by total time) this will give you an hourly rate. Do this with all quotes and you will get the best price.

Tip: You should always try and take a look at their previous work or credentials. Cos, you have pros and so called pros. The cheapest could also turn out be the worst job.

Also you say you have a concrete floor that's square. You are correct. There will be no unusual cuts. Depending on the size of your room as opposed to the size of tiles you have chosen, there will be cuts along the egdes, near the walls and cuts near your doors. A good tiler should take the time to cut these tiles to fit nicely around your door jambs.